Midcoast Conservancy is providing affordable, quality cross-country ski leases of high quality skis, boots, and poles for kids and adults. After being sized for the gear at one of three fitting sessions, skiers keep their gear for as long as the snow lasts, so they can ski on great equipment wherever and whenever they want. 

There will be three fitting sessions in December and January in three locations to provide options for participants. The first fit session will be Dec. 18, 3:30 to 6 p.m., at the Edgecomb Eddy School, 157 Boothbay Road in Edgecomb. The second session will be held on Jan. 5, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Welcome Center at Hidden Valley Nature Center, 131 Egypt Road in Jefferson. The final session will be on Jan. 8, 3:30 to 6 p.m. at the CLC YMCA at 525 Main Street in Damariscotta. It is highly recommended to come to one of the earlier sessions if possible in order to have access to the fullest inventory of sizes.

In addition, Midcoast Conservancy will sponsor the Hidden Valley Ski Club for all ages–youth and adults. The Club will start Sunday, Jan. 5 and run each Sunday morning until Feb. 16 (and beyond depending on conditions). Cross-country skiers of all ages and abilities can gather Sunday mornings for a community ski club at Midcoast Conservancy’s Hidden Valley Nature Center. Whether a skier is someone who has always wanted to learn to cross country ski or someone who has skied before but could use some new skills, staff will meet participants where they are in a fun, no-pressure environment. And for those who love cross-country skiing but have kids slowing them down, instructors will teach the kids while parents head onto the trails with new friends.

Hidden Valley Nature Center has miles of multi-use trails great for skiing; the trails are rolled and groomed all winter and the fire pits at the Barn offer a place to warm up between runs. Lease packages are $70 per person. For more information, go to https://www.midcoastconservancy.org/events.